Customer reviews

First of all, let's be clear – this is not a ‘video game movie’,
despite many official reviews at the time labelling it as such, a tad
dismissively. Those who know the original Warcraft games know they were
Real-Time-Strategy base-builders, and there is no way that was ever going to be
depicted in film… Those same people would know that the lore behind what went
on within the game itself was rich in backstory, and that extended throughout
the game series, before WoW brought it further to life from a different
perspective. It is that original backstory that is being depicted here, hence
the Warcraft: The Beginning name. Now we know what it isn't, what this film is,
is a great example of a Fantasy Epic along similar lines to The Hobbit, or the
Chronicles of Narnia. Like those examples, there is a rich world depicted, with
all manner of creatures both magical and mundane. There is also a lot of
exposition to have to get out of the way, and it is this that makes the viewing
cumbersome for someone with only a casual previous knowledge of the subject
matter. Lots of names to have to remember, and a great many attempts to make the
characters resonate – many of which simply did not need to be there, and made
the pace feel a tad disjointed at times. The actors made the most of their time
on the screen, and did well to breathe life into the characters, but things
seemed to be rushed through the middle of the film, with a few too many
side-plots that really didn't make much difference to the end result. However
I still deem it worthy of a 4 star rating, as despite that, it remained
enjoyable, and the landscape and visual effects really brings the viewer into
the world. The spell effects are worth special note, I think, both from the fel
energies wielded by Gul'dan, and the arcane abilities shown by Khadgar and
Medivh – something I feel has been missing from other fantasy films. In
summary, what was done well, was done really very well indeed. There are just
parts that I feel they were trying to do too much, too quickly.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

"Must for warcraft fans"

5 stars"

Review by Alastair
on 8th March, 2017

Purchased on Mighty Ape

Love this movie. The orcs are insanely detailed. Magic and sword fighting
great for any action fan.

Description

The peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization
faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to
colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces
destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are
set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their
people, and their home.

BLU-RAY™ EXCLUSIVES (Available on Blu-ray editions):

WARCRAFT: Bonds of Brotherhood Motion Comic: Take an
interactive journey through the official WARCRAFT graphic novel with a
never-before-seen motion comic that brings the story of the film’s young
heroes – Prince Llane, Captain Lothar and Guardian Medivh – to life in
this unique experience.

The World of Warcraft on Film: The “World of Warcraft”
is much more than just a game – it is a cultural phenomenon as documented in
this comprehensive multi-part feature focused on bringing the unique environs of
WARCRAFT to film:

The World of Talent: Fans can learn more about the casts’
reactions to being a part of the WARCRAFT film, how they prepared for their role
and the challenges they encountered during filming.

The World of VFX: The WARCRAFT universe wouldn’t exist
without the tireless efforts of the VFX crew. Follow along with the filmmakers
as they tell the story of how WARCRAFT came to life through VFX.

Outfitting a World: Learn how the filmmakers worked with
WETA workshop, Blizzard, and acclaimed costume designer Mayes Rubeo to create
the weaponry and armor that must be familiar and otherworldly at the same time,
all while creating a unique aesthetic for the film.

The World of MOCAP: An overview of the creation of the Orcs
and other digital characters from inception all the way through to the final
execution. Through extensive footage of the actors in their MOCAP suits and live
in-camera renderings during production, the audience will see the incredible
effort that went into creating the Orcs.

The World of Stunts: Though much of WARCRAFT was created
through extensive VFX, the fight scenes and stunts had to be very real. In this
featurette, fans can learn more about the extensive fight choreography and stunt
work that fueled the film’s action from beginning to end.

Madame Tussauds’ Featurette: Featurette on the making of
the WARCRAFT wax figures by Madame Tussauds.

WARCRAFT Teaser: An early teaser which premiered at San
Diego Comic-Con in 2013.

BLU-RAY™ AND DVD BONUS FEATURES:

Deleted Scenes

Gag Reel

Origin Story

The Fandom of WARCRAFT: Delve into the history and breadth
of the fandom behind the game and film, as well as the way it has influenced pop
culture.

ILM: Behind the Magic of WARCRAFT: See some of the
groundbreaking facial capture technology utilized by Industrial Lights &
Magic to convey the emotion and depth of the visually impressive Orc characters
in the film.

Warcraft Reviews

“This franchise itself is like a portal to new adventures where the
action is for ever open-ended, and fresh personalities and intrigue lie in wait.
So far, this video game epic is pushing the right buttons.” –
Independent Online

“Jones maintains patience with the tale and delivers compelling
visuals, allowing those capable of surrendering to the material a chance to
immerse themselves in storytelling expanse.” – Blu-ray.com

“Bold, unapologetic, hardcore fantasy. There are times when it feels
like watching an '80s heavy metal album cover in cinematic form, which isn't
necessarily a bad thing.” – Tribune News Service